The programme of supporting events to take place in Birkenhead Park on the days that the renowned art exhibit, Gaia, is in town has been unveiled.
As announced recently, Luke Jerram’s iconic ‘Gaia’ exhibition – a three-dimensional representation of our planet Earth – is coming to Birkenhead Park for three days at the end of May as part of Wirral’s year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture 2024.
Councillor Helen Cameron, Chair of Wirral Council’s Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee, said:
“Wirral’s year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture is well underway with local arts and heritage organisations stepping up to get involved. The Council is proud to be bringing Luke Jerram’s Gaia to the UNESCO World Heritage Site-shortlisted Birkenhead Park as part of the programme, and we can’t wait to welcome residents and visitors to share a few unforgettable days of celebration and family fun.”
Now, the events that will take place in the shadow of the exhibit on each day it is here have been announced, beginning on Tuesday May 28th with ‘Dance Around The Globe’, which will see Morris dancing and other traditional dancing – as well a relaxing yoga session led by local yogi – performed under ‘Gaia’.
Wednesday 29th May is ‘Love Your Earth Day’, which is centred around an environment-themed market showcasing community groups across the borough who are making a difference. Visitors can try their hand at willow and bamboo weaving, or try their hand at beekeeping. There might even be an odd encounter with a giant tortoise and a talking flower.
‘Wirral Sings’ is the theme of the third and final day on Thursday 30th May featuring a dramatic fire-lit concert featuring local singer-songwriters and a performance by Flat Pack Opera. Visitors are invited to bring refreshments and sit back to enjoy this mini-prom in the park whilst watching the sun set behind the magnificent Gaia.
The events have been put together by the council’s partner in this Borough of Culture celebration, the world-famous Walk the Plank group. Walk the Plank will also be bringing their People Powered Rocket to the park on both ‘Love Your Earth Day’ and at ‘Wirral Sings’.
Stephenson’s Rocket was one of the true wonders of the Victorian age. This pioneering steam engine established the DNA for locomotives worldwide, and paved the way for the 1830s railway revolution.
Two centuries after its creation, George Stevenson’s Rocket locomotive has been re-designed for the 21st century as a truly clean machine – fuelled not by coke but by good old-fashioned pedal power.
Walk The Plank’s version is fit for the modern age, with human power serving as the cleanest fuel around. The construction will be pulling First, Second and Third Class carriages through the park – and there will even be six horse passengers, who – relieved of their labour by the advent of the steam engine – are instead heading off on their holidays dressed in their Victorian best hats, frocks and suits.
Bev Ayre, Senior Producer at Walk the Plank, said:
”We’re thrilled to be producing three days of fun and environmental activities under Luke Jerram’s awe inspiring earth. Come along and join us for a Wirral Borough of Culture programme which promises to be out of this world.“
